INTRODUCING THE DAMASCUS COLLEGE BOARD / 04

McAULEY CUP / 06

2016 EAST TIMOR IMMERSION TRIP / 10

SCHOOL PRODUCTION - GREASE / 15

ATHLETICS CARNIVAL 2016 / 16

ALUMNI STORY: PAST STUDENTS PLAYING FOR AFL GLORY / 19

DAMASCUS COLLEGE SPRING 2016 From the Principal 02 Damascus College Strategic Directions 2016-2020 03 FROM THE PRINCIPAL Introducing the Damascus MATTHEW BYRNE College Board 04 Mercy International Reflection Process 05 Welcome to the Spring Area Leaders proposed an early start program that edition of the Road. This gave greater validity to the end of year transitional McAuley Cup 06 spring, after the abundance arrangements for senior students and provided Damascus Day 07 of our winter rain, the a mechanism to address the organisational seasonal growth is profuse complexities for all students while putting French Trip 2016 08 and it is great to see those learning and achievement at the heart of the within our rural industries educational change. Scout Honours 09 filled with the hope for a As I write this newsletter we add the graduating strong end to the growing Damascus Students Battled class of 2016 to our College alumni. They have season. for Debating Glory 09 been a remarkable group of young men and Abundant growth and the cusp of the new that women who we proudly send forth into the 2016 East Timor Immersion Trip 10 spring promises, are themes which are resonating global community. I acknowledge and thank East Timor through the eyes with us strongly in our College community. Since those families for whom 2016 marks the end of damascus Students 12 mid-2015 the College Board, led initially by Vin of their Damascus journey and hope that you Dillon and followed on by Joe Cahir in the role remain connected with us through forums such Making a Difference 13 of Chair, commenced the process of developing as this, the facebook page and the website. the strategic directions 2016-20. Experienced We were fortunate to celebrate the Year 12’s Mother’s Day and Father’s Day educator, Philomena Billington guided the Board final day of classes by welcoming Bulldogs Liturgy and Breakfast 13 in the development of our next road map and premiership player and 2008 College captain, the consultation processes were extensive. We back to address the College. Imogen Awarded the Spirit are very excited about the new directions for our We are very appreciative of Jordan coming off of Anzac 14 College as they affirm the work that we have his holidays to spend time with us. Jordan is a School Production - Grease 15 already undertaken and challenge us to new generous young man of remarkable character, heights in achieving the vision for the young who has worked incredibly hard to develop his Athletics Carnival 2016 16 people of this community. A vision that states; gifts and it is great to see him enjoying the fruits “Damascus College is a Christ centred Learning of his labour. Blast from the Past 16 community that values each member and is Recently our staff team has been rocked by the Students Build their own 3D Printer 17 committed to inspiring and challenging students to reach their potential and contribute confidently sudden and tragic passing of Mary Cooper who Malaysian Students Visit Damascus 17 to the global community.” has been a science and arts technician since 2008 and a former student of Sacred Heart and St Food is Free Alumni Story 18 The strategic directions were promulgated at the Martin’s. Our thoughts and prayers remain with end of July at a joint staff and Board event. An her husband Brendan and their beautiful children, Past Students Playing for AFL Glory exceptional multi-media resource was developed Patrick, Gemma and Hugh. Alumni Story 19 by Leader of School Development, Sarah Boswell I wish to acknowledge that Tony Purcell and and O’Collins House Leader, Daniel Jans, it allows Alumni Story Greg Macallister will both retire at the end of Damascus Strong 19 us to revisit our shared purpose at all levels across 2016. Tony has taught at St Martin’s in the Pines the College over the life of this plan. I encourage 1:1 Device Program 20 and Damascus for 28 years, 40 years in Catholic all members of our community to tap into the education and 42 years in teaching. Tony has Annual Guest Speaker Event 20 documentation, it is not wordy and it provides a inspired young men and women in their love snapshot of the key elements of our identity and of language, literature and psychology and his Reunions 21 the directions we will take over the years to come. presence will be missed. Greg also concludes Where are they now? 22 Our College Board does a wonderful job in a period of outstanding service to St Marin’s in providing the strategic focus for our community. the Pines and Damascus, through his teaching Births, Marriages, In Memory 22 They are supported by a series of sub-committees he has opened up the world of mathematics and that support learning and teaching, well-being, technology for literally thousands of students on school community, Catholic school culture and this campus for 30 years. We celebrate both of finance, facilities and risk. I would just like to their contributions and wish them well for the take the opportunity to promote the opportunity future. Bronwyn Strachan is taking leave in 2017 to give back through these sub-committees and and her presence in the visual arts will be sorely encourage those who may consider it a possibility missed after her 25 year contribution. Teachers, to indicate your interest through the College Adrian Newman and Kirsten Phyland are both development office. doing teacher exchange in Canada in 2017 and we look forward to them bringing new knowledge Progressive and innovative learning and teaching and skills from far away shores back to Damascus. that maximises student outcomes, is a feature DAMASCUS COLLEGE LIMITED of our new strategic directions. As a College So in this time of spring and new growth we A.C.N. 609066775 community we are moving to an “Early Start prepare for the 207 students who will join us in Program” at the end of 2016 to maximise the Year 7 in 2017. 1412 Geelong Road, Mt Clear 3350 learning and teaching processes. All students will As the festive season approaches may the p 03 5337 2222 e [email protected] progress to the next year level for the final two blessings of the season be upon you all. www.damascus.vic.edu.au weeks of the College year. In 2014 the Learning DAMASCUS COLLEGE Strategic Directions 2016-2020

By 2020, Damascus College will be known for being a Christ-centred learning community committed to a culture of excellence that inspires students, develops staff, and values parents and families - and in so doing, encourages all to reach their potential and place in wider society. ACCORDINGLY, DAMASCUS COLLEGE ASPIRES TO -

A shared vision and values inspired by biblical and Progressive and innovative learning and teaching Damascus College traditions, demonstrated by - that maximise educational outcomes for all students, • providing leadership-in-faith opportunities for students, demonstrated by - staff and the broader community; • quality, targeted professional learning for staff; • ensuring that the Gospel and Catholic traditions are • self-directed students inspired by high expectations; and understood as guidance and support for life; and • quality educational outcomes that are measured • personal and community responses to God’s call in today’s and evaluated. world expressed as social justice.

Respectful relationships that value all members in an A community where the contribution of all to the College inclusive, and welcoming community which celebrates and broader society is optimised, demonstrated by - diversity in a safe and supportive school, demonstrated by - • confident and clear communication processes giving voice • commitment and pride in contributing to Damascus to the wisdom of all; College life; • engaged parents who contribute to the growth of students, • shared expectations that both encourage and challenge the College and broader community; and all community members; and • strong links to the global community. • a safe and sustainable environment cared for by all. DAMASCUS COLLEGE – THE ROAD SPRING 2016

03 INTRODUCING THE DAMASCUS COLLEGE BOARD

The Co-Governors of Damascus College are Sr Berenice Kerr (representing the Institute of Sisters of Mercy Australia and Papua The 2016 Damascus College Board consists of: New Guinea) and Fr Adrian McInerney (representing the Canonical Administrators of and District). Co Governors Sr Berenice Kerr and Fr Adrian McInerney Damascus College has a College Board of Directors who are Chair Joe Cahir responsible for the strategic direction and management of the College within the terms established by the above sponsors. Secretary Matthew Byrne (Principal) Damascus College is an incorporated entity in that it is a company Directors Fr Peter Sherman limited by guarantee. Directors are required to comply with the Australian Institute of Company Directors Code of Conduct. The Bill Slatter Board meets regularly to establish and review general policy, to Jane Collins receive regular reports from the College Principal, to consider the financial situation and to undertake long-term strategic planning for Brendan Maher the College. Paulene Barton Damascus College also has Board Sub-committees which are Raymond Wright chaired by a Board Director and consist of a member of the College Leadership Team, staff, parents and representatives from the Lucy O’Beirne wider community. These Sub-committees operate under terms of reference, providing advice, recommendations and input to the Sr Elizabeth Dowling Board in the areas of: policy, strategic direction and community Marc Amos representation. Amanda Western Stephen Carey Pictured left to right: Fr Peter Sherman, Bill Slatter, Sr Berenice Kerr, Jane Collins, Brendan Maher, Paulene Barton, Raymond Wright, Lucy O’Beirne, Joe Cahir, Brett Bryant Sr Elizabeth Dowling, Marc Amos and Amanda Western. Absent from photo: Fr Adrian McInerney, Stephen Carey, Brett Bryant and Michael Myers. Michael Myers MERCY INTERNATIONAL REFLECTION PROCESS

Above: This was the combined results of the research into students, parents and families concerns about the earth’s poor.

As a school in the tradition of the Sisters of Mercy, established by During Term 3 students considered this in all aspects of the Venerable Catherine McAuley in Dublin in the nineteenth century, curriculum, including the beginnings of understanding the theology Damascus College joined in this year, with the Sisters, in the Mercy of the Year of Mercy through the Damascus Day Mass Hands of Mercy International Reflection Process (MIRP). activity. Our gospel at Damascus Day Mass was the story of the son who took his inheritance and wasted it in a binge of consumerism. The Year of Mercy commenced for Damascus College staff on 7th The story is often called the Prodigal Son (Luke 15) but may be December 2015 with a visit to the College by Sr. Veronica Lawson better named Consumerism - Finding a Way Back. Consumerism RSM and with the reception of her text, The Blessing of Mercy. Each had negative effects on the relationships of this son in a story set member of the College staff was gifted a copy of the book. To mark in ancient times. In modern times consumerism is having a global the commencement of the Year of Mercy, Sr Veronica Lawson on effect on both the human and other-than-human relationships of our behalf of Sr Berenice Kerr, College Governor, gifted the College with world. How can we be merciful in our relationships with the earth? a large portrait photograph of a statue of Catherine McAuley. In Term 4 we are working further on understanding a theology of Sr. Veronica would return twice more to address staff concerning consumerism before discerning a community action that is liberating MIRP. The process would see the College engage in a major way with and sustainable and unwavering – the fruit of the Year of Mercy. the needs of the earth and the needs of the poor. After collecting stories about issues of concern from parents, staff and students, a TONY HAINTZ discernment process established a College focus: Consumerism: The Assistnat Principal, Catholic School Culture DAMASCUS COLLEGE – THE ROAD SPRING 2016 injustice to the living and non-living of our planet in order to sustain an existence based upon greed and wealth, impacting: Global Warming; Poverty; Deforestation; Pollution. 05 McAULEY CUP

On Monday 12th September 2016, Mercy Regional College Camperdown visited Damascus College to compete in the inaugural McAuley Cup and Shield. The two Mercy schools competed in a Girls football match and a Boys football match. The Year 7 and 8 Damascus Girls team played some extremely good football in wet conditions and managed to secure a win by around 15 goals. Stephanie Fitzgerald and Kaiah McCahon were deadly in front of goal finishing with a couple each whilst Kaitlyn Balazic competed hard across half back. Tahlia Meier was awarded best on the ground for Damascus which was selected by the opposition coach. The sunshine appeared for the Year 7 and 8 Boys match and it favoured the much taller Camperdown School. They took control during the first quarter leading by two goals at the break. The Damascus boys bridged the gap to six points early in the second quarter but from then on it was all Mercy Regional College Camperdown. The final score ended up being a seven goal loss for Damascus but credit to the Junior Boys for fighting it out to the end. Best on ground for Damascus was awarded to Aidan Carter with other notable contributions from Nick Pantzidis, Alex Rofe, Jack Bambury and William Deans. Next year it will be our turn to travel to Camperdown for the second year of this competition and I’m sure the students will be looking forward to this already given the success of this year’s event. DAMASCUS DAY

On Wednesday 14th September 2016, all students and staff celebrated Damascus Day and the Year of Mercy. Celebrations began with a whole school Mass, where the theme focussed on the ‘Year of Mercy’ and ‘God’s Mercy Endures Forever’ from Psalm 136. The gospel that was chosen for the Mass was the Story of The Prodigal Son, where in the story the loving father reaches out to his sons with his loving hands in an act of mercy. The Damascus College school choir led us beautifully in celebration through song and prayer. Mass was followed by a Festival of activities where the campus was buzzing with positive energy and excitement. Students took part in an Amazing Race Challenge where they had to visit all activities around campus, including: a jumping castle, movie mural, challenge, dance off, inflatable twister and much, much more. Students and staff then enjoyed a Performance Showcase of the many musical talents of Damascus students, where students played instruments, sang songs and danced in celebration of Damascus and the Year of Mercy. The Showcase concluded with an engaging and hilarious Staff Flashmob where up to 15 staff members danced to ‘Uptown Funk’ – well done to all staff involved, it was great fun. DAMASCUS COLLEGE – THE ROAD SPRING 2016

07 FRENCH TRIP 2016

At Damascus, we are very fortunate that the community, the College their outstanding support before and during this trip. I congratulate Board and Principal Mr Matthew Byrne support the opportunity to all the students who travelled in Switzerland and France. The 16 provide an overseas language trip every year, alternating between students worked hard to prepare for the journey and were exemplary Indonesian and French. This year was the French Language Study ambassadors for our school. Together we experienced many amazing Tour where students and staff experienced the joys of travelling in sights and sounds and I know that the students have made great both Switzerland and France. As leader of the trip this year I would progress in their spoken French and their understanding of both like to publicly express my gratitude to the families in Switzerland, Swiss and French cultures. I hope that all of them will keep in contact who for the third time, warmly welcomed Damascus College with their host brother or sister in Switzerland and so continue the students into their homes. I also acknowledge the Principal and staff benefits of this voyage for life. at the Collège de L’Esplanade in Begnins for their hospitality and organisation of the school lessons during our stay. MAUREEN MYERS French Teacher These overseas trips involve many hours of planning and I thank Sr Marie Davey, Ms Stephanie Hoey and other language staff for SCOUT HONOURS DAMASCUS STUDENTS BATTLED FOR DEBATING

In May 2016, Year 10 student Castley Webb was recognised GLORY as a role model and leader, as she was presented with the Australian Scout Medallion, at a presentation in Melbourne that was attended by hundreds of people from across Victoria. On Monday 22nd August 2016, two teams of Damascus College Year 7 and 8 students competed against each other This award is the highest award earned by Scouts (aged in the ACU Debating Challenge Year 7 and 8 , as 11-14 years) and recognises leadership, organisation, drive, part of the Royal South Street Competition, held at the Council determination, resilience and a high level of practical Scouting Chambers, Ballarat City Town Hall. knowledge including campcraft and hiking. Head of the Damascus Library, Loretta Kaval said that Castley is a member of the 1st Mount Clear Scout Group. She all students did extremely well in their individual and said that to achieve this award she had to participate and lead group events. a variety of activities, such as basic first aid, campcraft skills, navigation skills, 50 nights of camping, three day hikes and “We were very proud to have two Damascus teams in the final, many more. and were excited at taking the beautiful cup back to Damascus. Many thanks go to Royal South Street and all their volunteers “I am very proud to receive this award” she said. for the opportunities they offered students in this debating Castley has been in Scouts for four years and has completed competition.” she said. the Adventurer component in the last 12 months. She will Prior to this year’s Royal South Street Competition, these now enter the next youth section of Scouting, called Venturers students participated in the Damascus College House debating (aged 15-17 years). competition and earlier this year Hannah Farhall represented “As a Venturer, I am now striving for the Queen’s Scout Award Damascus College at the Debating Association of Victoria, which is 250 hours of scout and community work over a three where students debated against other regional secondary year period.” schools. “I would encourage any young person to become a Scout as Year 7 students, Georgia Newman and Payton Overall also it really is a lot of fun. I have made a lot of great friends along recently competed in the Legacy Youth of the Year Public the way, where we meet weekly and participate in camps, Speaking Competition in Ballarat, and Georgia was selected volunteering and working bees.” in the top three to progress to the Regional Final in Bendigo. DAMASCUS COLLEGE – THE ROAD SPRING 2016

The Australian Scout Medallion has three components; The Above: Hannah Farhall, Payton Overall, Tara Gannon, Loretta Kaval, Green Cord, The Leadership Course and The Leadership Activity. Georgia Newman, Casey Gordijn, Symantha Sawka. 09 2016 EAST TIMOR IMMERSION TRIP

June 16th 2016 was the beginning of a once in a life time experience and sang songs and played games. The teachers couldn’t drag the for 14 Year 11 students from Damascus College. These students were students away from each other because they were having such a off to Timor-Leste to visit Ballarat’s sister-city Ainaro and their sister fantastic time together. school, Escola Secundra Santa Maria (Santa Maria Secondary School). The highlight of the week was definitely the St Luis Gonzaga night. The students applied to be a part of the Timor Immersion team and This is a night that is a celebration of the boys’ pre-seminarian spent most of the past 12 months fundraising for Santa Maria. The school. The boys and the girls put on acts for the audience. There two main fundraising events this year were a Car Raffle and a Trivia was a shared meal for the guests and all the students finished with night. All up the students raised between $18,000 and $20,000 for singing and dancing. There was also an added significance this year Santa Maria and a number of organisations in the capital, Dili. - they celebrated Emma Sherritt and Phoebe Bentley’s birthdays with a magnificent cake and a rousing Timor rendition of Happy, Happy The student’s first experience of Timor-Leste was the hot and humid Birthday. The girls were very surprised. capital city Dili. From here we travelled to Ainaro. The road to Ainaro was under reconstruction and the first 10 to 20 kilometres had been Ordinary everyday tasks were suddenly an issue. Cold showers, no resurfaced. The staff from last year thought it might be a quick drive, flushing toilets, bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth and however, the last 100 kilometres still took over six hours because of food that was significantly different to our Australian/Western diet. the state of the roads and the winding mountain passages. This is one part of the Immersion that truly opened the eyes of the Damascus Students. Immediately upon our arrival in Ainaro the students connected with the students from the school. The students were very friendly and The final goodbyes were very difficult, because the students made cheerful. They made us so welcome. Our first day included a Mass great friendships. There were lots of hugs and lots of tears. in Tetum with beautiful singing all led by the boys and girls of the school. Padre Joao (Fr John) then took us to visit a site called “Jakarta Finally, the students spent the last two days in Dili visiting 2”. This site highlighted the consequences of the “occupation” of the organisations that are in desperate need of support but are doing Indonesians. The stories from this site shocked the students but it work to the best of their ability. The Damascus students support also made the students aware of the struggle the Timorese people The Edmund Rice Foundation, Klibur Domin Hospital, The Alola have gone through to gain their independence. It also highlighted Foundation, the Alma Sisters and our friend and guide Aje’s the happiness of the Timorese people. Regardless of their struggles workplace - Ba Futuru. The students also visited the Tais market, they are always welcoming and positive. That’s why they are happy. Cristo Rei and Sebastian Gomez’ grave in the Santa Cruz Cemetery. What an experience! Over the course of the week the Damascus students took the Santa Maria students for English conversation classes. At the end of the GERARD MACKLIN classes the Santa Maria students interviewed the Damascus students Learning Area Leader - Humanities as one of their tasks. When classes finished the students mixed DAMASCUS COLLEGE – THE ROAD SPRING 2016

11 EAST TIMOR: THROUGH THE EYES OF DAMASCUS STUDENTS

SUSTAINABLE CITIES AND COMMUNITIES Recently 18 Damascus College students and staff had a life changing A simple donation to an organisation working within Timor-Leste, or experience in Timor-Leste. It was an immersion that opened our eyes even a visit to the country itself and working in the villages amongst to the danger and severity of poverty in developing countries. We the mountains are all forms of assistance that are possible. There is went there to not only experience the culture and people, but to do a lot to be done, and a lot to learn from these people. I have learned something useful and help these wonderful people rebuild their from their resilient character. I have learned about their lifestyle and lives. We had been fundraising for months in advance of the trip, how it differs to mine. Their villages and communities are struggling and whilst in Timor, visited many organisations that areas of to be sustainable; perhaps together we could work on sustainability need. Our donations will help them continue their amazing work as a goal for ourselves and the people of Timor-Leste. within Timor-Leste. In Ainaro, we taught English to the Year 10, 11 and 12 students of Escola Santa Maria. ABBEY CUTLER Year 11 We now feel called to even do more. The villages and environments these people live in are unlike ours. At times they are unsafe and basic needs of human life not adequately provided for. Many homes are rubble and there is limited access to clean water and safe roads.

NO HUNGER Before leaving for East Timor we were all asked to find one of the on the importance of a balanced diet and the types of food that will 17 sustainable development goals and research it. I chose ‘no help with their nutrition. Perhaps make a community garden that hunger’ as something I had to focus on whilst being there. The way anyone can gather food from when needed, as long as they put in the Timorese people live, the food they eat and the size they are, the effort of growing the food. If we educate as many people as we all impact our knowledge of a developing country. We rarely saw can about the importance of healthy eating then they will be able to people that were overweight or larger than average. Most of the pass it on to their children and then theirs and so on. Then hopefully little children were very skinny and small as well; not many people we can eventually stop the food limit in East Timor, if everyone works were tall. The food eaten there consisted of mainly rice, a little bit together they will have lots of food to share and use, if everyone of meat and some vegies. Later in the trip we discovered that the maintains it. I hope, for the sake of Timor-Leste that something like locals usually only eat meat twice a week. They were giving it to us this can happen so that hunger is not a problem in their country and every single day, for lunch AND dinner. Their diet was very basic and I hope that people as lucky as us would be willing to make a change. did not allow them to gain the nutrition needed to live a healthy lifestyle. FREYA MAUDE Year 11 As I see it, a way to help with the amount of food over there would be to gather a large group of people to travel to the villages and more self-contained areas, and teach them how to grow and maintain crops like vegetables and wheat, and educate them

SOLIDARITY Solidarity amongst the community is huge in Timor-Leste. This is National solidarity is in evidence daily in Ainaro. At 6 o’clock, on the about deep concern or empathy for others. The children in the market dot, the entire town of Ainaro stopped everything they were doing places were unified. They would travel around in groups in order to to turn in the direction of the police station. Whether it was playing protect each other. With no refrigeration the meat recently killed would soccer or chatting with friends, they would pause for the going not keep in the humidity. Families and neighbours shared meat that down of the national flag. It was the most nationalist and unified they had slaughtered in the early morning. Again solidarity. At the Alama occurrence of the trip for me. Sisters in Dili there was a protective presence. Solidarity of the Sisters in their service of children, including orphans with disabilities, was clear in ASHLEE SMITH their welcoming nature and in their thankfulness of our kind donations. Year 11 At Ba Futuru (For the Future), there was a strong sense of justice in taking care of the beautiful children that are a part of their little community. MAKING A DIFFERENCE

My name is Matilda McKinnon and I’m in Year 11 at Damascus College. From the middle of July till early August, I took part in a volunteering program in Thailand. We travelled to the Phang Nga district, a remote fishing village on the west coast of Thailand, on the Andaman Sea. It’s a beautiful location, and is close to stunning forests and beaches. There was a group of 15 girls aged 15 to 17, including two Australians, two Americans and eleven British youth. Throughout the course of two weeks we travelled all around Thailand from poverty stricken villages to major tourist spots. I decided to volunteer abroad because I wanted to make a difference where the help was needed. I chose to travel to Thailand because I thought it would be an appropriate location to offer help to those still suffering the devastating impacts of the Boxing Day tsunamis’ in 2004. Half of the villagers died in the tsunami, and the village is still recovering in many different ways. In September 2015, I attended the Timor-Leste immersion presentation. I was very excited because I really wanted to help others and follow the Damascus College direction of social justice and giving. After going to this information session my mum and I discovered I couldn’t go due to various reasons. This motivated me more to get out of my comfort zone and volunteer. I decided to do some research online. Originally it was quite difficult to find a volunteering program for youths under the age of 18. But I kept going and that’s when I found GVI or Global Vision International. In Thailand, I helped to scrub baby sea turtles that needed daily care before being released back into the ocean. I collected rubbish from the streets of villages, dug trenches for pipes and painted public buildings. I spent two weeks in Thailand, and it was very humbling to see the lack of infrastructure, hygiene and poor living conditions compared to Australia. We spent time with local Burmese refugees. These children are not allowed to attend public schools in Thailand, as they have no identification. They rely on learning the English language to find work in the tourism industry. Other people at GVI worked with these children, teaching them to speak, read and write English. I would definitely recommend other students investigate opportunities to volunteer overseas. I have travelled overseas numerous times, but being immersed in another culture with different standards of living and learning from the locals and how blessed we are in Australia was life changing. I know that my bed is extremely comfortable, my food is refrigerated and safe to eat, my family and friends can go to a hospital if they are sick, they MOTHER’S DAY AND have a paid job to help them provide for their families, and education is FATHER’S DAY LITURGY available for everyone to gain benefit. AND BREAKFAST When I finish studying at Damascus, I hope to undertake a degree in Nursing/Paramedicine at the Aquinas Campus of the Australian Catholic University. I’d like to travel to remote indigenous communities in the Northern Territory to work in the medical field. I’d also like to work for To signify Mother’s and Father’s Day, each year Doctors without Borders or the Red Cross when I have finished studying. Damascus holds a Liturgy and breakfast to celebrate the significant men and women in our lives. The people of Thailand are warm, welcoming and happy, despite what we perceive to be a low standard of living. On Thursday 5th May 2016, we welcomed more than 120 guests to celebrate Mother’s Day and on Thursday Matilda funded this trip to Thailand with the $2,000 she received from 1st September 2016 we welcomed more than 100 being awarded the Dorothy Griffin Scholarship in 2015, supported by the guests to celebrate Father’s Day. Attendees of both Sisters of Mercy of Australia and . events participated in a L iturgy held at the Our Lady of Mercy Chapel on campus, followed by a delicious breakfast in the Undercroft. It was lovely to see so many parents and guardians support their young people by attending these occasions, and it is always such a great opportunity to DAMASCUS COLLEGE – THE ROAD SPRING 2016 network and welcome new members to the Damascus community. 13 IMOGEN AWARDED THE SPIRIT OF ANZAC PRIZE

My name is Imogen Coles and I am a year 10 student at Damascus some instant friends. I then had to wait until the end of January this College. While I am originally from New Zealand, I grew up in Ballarat year before I found out that I had been selected to participate in the and I have been going to Damascus since I enrolled here in Year 7. overseas study tour. Needless to say, I was ecstatic! I currently live in Miners Rest with my Mum, my Dad and older sister Sidonie. The initial tour involved travelling to Athens, Lemnos, Turkey, Gallipoli, Brussels and Paris. Unfortunately, two days prior to our departure, Damascus College has provided me with many opportunities the Brussels Terror attacks took place so the whole trip was almost to explore my interests. cancelled. Instead, it was arranged that we would spend two weeks travelling Greece. I was disappointed at not having the opportunity While only in year 10, I am currently studying VCE Ancient History to go to all the other places, Gallipoli especially, but I had the most and I am really enjoying it, as I have always had a keen interest in amazing time in Greece instead. history. This year, I had the most amazing opportunity to visit Greece as part of the Premiers Spirit of Anzac Study Tour which had increased my I was fortunate to spend time in Athens, then in Lemnos where we knowledge and understanding of World War history, as well as ancient went to a school and met the students there. They welcomed us Greek history. This experience was once in a lifetime and I will never warmly and we were all surprised at how fluent in English they all forget the great time I had nor the amazing people I met along the way. were. There was so much history and so many memorials for all the people who died during war, it seemed a little unreal at times. This opportunity came about last year when Mr Bawden presented to my year about his own experience with winning the Spirit of Anzac From Lemnos we flew back to Athens and spent the day touring prize as a chaperone. He inspired me to think about entering myself, the grand city. The Parthenon was definitely a highlight for me. We and I am very grateful for his support and guidance throughout the then travelled from Athens all the way up to the top of Greece by process of the competition. bus, Thessaloniki. From here we went to Crete where we spent the remainder of our time and I got to celebrate my 16th birthday in Prior to me entering the competition, my aunt in New Zealand had a gorgeous place overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. One of the made a discovery about a man in our family who won a Victorian highlights for me was visiting some of the most ancient sites in the Cross in World War 1. Excited about this discovery, I chose to delve world and taking over 3500 photos! deeper into my family history and to make a documentary about my findings as my entry for the competition. My research began with my I made so many new friends during my time overseas and I look forward grandfather on my mum’s side, right here in Ballarat. But my research to our yearly reunion in the July school holidays. The whole experience soon took me further, all the way back to New Zealand to research the has changed my view on WW1 and WW2. I don’t think that anyone can family on my dad’s side. fully imagine what people went through during those times. I think that there is only so much a history textbook can tell you, and you have Here, I had the chance to visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum, to physically be at these places to have any understanding of the sheer with whom I had been corresponding prior to arriving, to organise numbers of people who sacrificed their lives. to see the Victorian Cross of my great, great uncle, William Sanders. While there I had the very rare opportunity to handle his Victoria Cross I feel privileged to have been selected for the 2016 Anzac Prize and to have and to see some other artefacts of his. My journey then took me to the had this most memorable experience. I am very thankful to everyone who Torpedo Bay Navy Museum to research my great grandfather – Leo assisted me with my project and to help make my application a success. Coles. I spent time interviewing my grandparents and aunt in relation to all of these people and made many new discoveries along the way. This was an experience I will never forget. I was really excited when I was contacted to say that I had been short IMOGEN COLES, YEAR 10 listed for the competition, and was asked to attend an interview in Melbourne. At the interview, I met the other students and made GREASE CAST LIST Danny - Andrew Marriott (Year 11) Sandy - Olivia Valpied (Year 12) Rizzo - Candi Wade (Year 12) Jan - Ruby Penhall (Year 10) Marty - Chiara Angeli (Year 12) Frenchy - Ellie Carroll (Year 10) Kenickie - Mitch Clark (Year 12) Doody - Matthew Gay (Year 10) Roger - Jack Lorensini (Year 11) Sonny - Blake Johns (Year 9) Patty Simcox - Lilli Hutchinson (Year 10) Cha Cha Di Gregorio - Natalya Munro (Year 11) Eugene - Harry Buck (Year 10) Vince Fontaine - Aiden Kinder (Year 11) Johnny Casino - Jack Davidson (Year 8) SCHOOL PRODUCTION - GREASE Teen Angel - Jack Gillard (Year 12) Miss Lynch - Jennifer Hunt (Year 10)

GREASE CHORUS/ENSEMBLE LIST Grease, the rollicking musical that salutes the rock ‘n’ roll era was this year’s Ruby Gibson (Year 7), Georgia Newman (Year 7), 2016 Damascus College whole school production. This popular show, loved and recognised the world over was a nostalgic pastiche of the 1950s and Mia Lepair (Year 7), Gemma Angeli (Year 7), promised to be fast, furious, energetic... and fun, fun, fun. Keely Munro (Year 7), Eliza Lamb (Year 7), Olivia Stevens (Year 7), Declan Glenister (Year 7), The production, with its iconic songs, dance numbers and snappy dialogue brought back the look and sound of the teenage world of the late 1950s Patrick Western (Year 8), Seth Carter (Year 8), with glee. While hip Danny Zuko and wholesome Sandy Dumbrowski Jordan Hill (Year 9), Tabitha Byron (Year 9), resolved the problems of their mutual attraction for each other, the gang Tasya Dalem (Year 9), Stuart McLennan (Year 9), sang and danced its way through such nostalgic scenes as the pyjama Jameon Glenister (Year 9), Milly Frost (Year 9), party, the prom, the burger palace, and the drive-in movie. Classic songs Lilly Jones (Year 9), Ruby Haeusler (Year 9), include; Summer Nights, Greased Lightning and Beauty School Dropout. Meghan McGannon (Year 9), Bronnie Hughes (Year 10), Grease has maintained its everlasting popularity, proving that teenage Taya Letcher (Year 10), Lily Theodore (Year 10), angst and love’s young dream remain timeless. It is such an iconic and Taylah Den Ouden (Year 10), Emma Butler (Year 10), popular show that the five advertised sessions sold out in the FIRST Kiara Dalem (Year 11), Ava Micich (Year 11), WEEK, yes the first week. These packed sessions ran from Wednesday 20th to Saturday 23rd July 2016, and it was great to see that each session Sarah Collins (Year 11), Courtney Stedman (Year 11), had a large student involvement from all year levels of the College, as Grace Johns (Year 11), Georgia Skene (Year 12) performers, musicians and crew. THE GREASE BAND DAMASCUS COLLEGE – THE ROAD SPRING 2016 It was electrifying! Conductor - Adrian Newman, Drums - Jess DeVries, Lead guitars - Harrison Dale, Bass guitar - Luisa Bonazzoli, 15 Piano - Geoff Martin, Saxophone - Mira Stephens ATHLETICS CARNIVAL 2016

BLAST FROM THE PAST SPORT AT ST. PAUL’S COLLEGE

With all the excitement of the Olympics and Paralympics in Rio fresh in our minds, it is a great time to reflect on the rich sporting traditions that make up the history of Damascus College, looking all the way back to the 1960s. St. Paul’s Technical College opened in Lydiard Street in 1948, within walking distance to the Ballarat City Baths, and swimming was a popular sport for the boys. In 1961 during their annual swimming sports at the baths, students were kept enthralled by a diving exhibition (pictured) by W. McKenzie. Graham Bell, the 1961 under 13 cross country champion (pictured in familiar territory – running around Lake Wendouree), showed us that we don’t need the latest Mizuno footwear to prevail, just a fierce determination! All MAMILs please take note, there was not a scrap of lycra in sight when the boys took to the road for the Junior Bike Race circa 1962. Pictured is Kevin Perrin comfortably cruising the course in full school uniform. And finally, featured in the Ballarat Courier in July 1961, all eyes were definitely on the ball in this great photograph titled simply “Park Football”. As you can see from these wonderful images, the clothing and equipment may have progressed over the years, but the desire to represent the College with pride and determination remains unchanged to this day. MALAYSIAN STUDENTS VISIT DAMASCUS

On Wednesday 16th March 2016 we saw the arrival of 66 Malaysian students and their teachers to Damascus College. The group was in Australia for a one week study tour where they needed to involve some English language activities. So, together with the Ballarat Scrabble Club, Damascus organised scrabble games between the Damascus Indonesian language students and the visiting Malaysian students. In a relaxed atmosphere the students interacted together, shared their knowledge of each other’s languages and played scrabble. Following the games, the students were given a guided tour of the school facilities, which the Malaysian students were amazed with, as the schools they come from in Kuala Lumpur are within the city and very small in STUDENTS BUILD THEIR comparison...most asked to stay! OWN 3D PRINTER We shared lunch and had many, many photos taken, then sadly they departed early afternoon back to Melbourne before returning to Kuala Lumpur. New friends and relationships were fostered, and it was a great A group of Damascus College students from Year 8 to 12 have way to learn and appreciate other cultures. spent more than 30 hours over an eight week period building their very own 3D Printer, and it was completed in early August 2016. This Rostock V2 Delta Printer, also affectionately known as Martin, is unique in itself as its build has been completely student led, with the assistance of some Damascus staff. This printer is not merely an off-the-shelf unit, but a complex kit with hundreds of individual components. The students’ knowledge and understanding of the printer was greatly enhanced through the process of assembly and if there is a breakdown, we have a team of students willing and able to assist with the maintenance work. Science and Technology Teacher, Mark McLean said that at Damascus we offer progressive and innovative learning and teaching that maximises educational outcomes for all students. “The purpose of this printer is for students, staff and the Damascus community to use as needed, as it will become a bookable library resource, where the only cost to the user is to pay for the plastic, which is generally $1 per item” he said. “It enables students to be creative and to get experience in the new fields of 3D design and manufacture. The students involved have volunteered their time to build the printer, and their passion and commitment truly is commendable.” “This particular printer is based around a Delta configuration, rather than a Cartesian system, enabling a build diameter of 28cm and a height of 33cm, and it prints with a speed of 60mm/s and a resolution of 20 microns.” The printer will be a cross-curriculum resource that will be used for many different purposes, including drama props, mathematics, IT, systems engineering, science and visual arts resources. “The opportunities it presents for learning are exciting, and we are also looking forward to building parts for the Energy Breakthrough (EBT) Vehicles, including hinges, fixings and fittings.” The future is bright, as Mark also plans to build scaled EBT vehicle models with the printer, and he plans to test their DAMASCUS COLLEGE – THE ROAD SPRING 2016 aerodynamics right here on campus, in a wind tunnel that will be restored to its former glory. 17 FOOD IS FREE Alumni Story

I was born and raised in Ballarat. I moved to Melbourne for 20 years I’ve enjoyed many personal achievements, the fact I’ve run my own in the early 90s, but then returned to Ballarat in 2012. business has been a great achievement, meeting my idols and working with them has been really exciting. When I think back to my time as a student at Sacred Heart College and St Martin’s in the Pines, and how it helped me with my life now, I was fortunate to work for many different organisations in the I realise that it has in many ways. The most important was that the entertainment industry, where I gleaned information and made teachers taught us to respect each other and that’s been my best contacts along the way, to help build my own business. parting gift from my time in high school. The proudest achievement for me right now is definitely being the The teacher who had the biggest influence on me and was my founder and running Food Is Free Laneway. Helping to spread the favourite was Bernard Bradbury. He commanded that classroom with word about food security and sustainability and helping those in his amazing stories in European History and eternally fascinated me. need surpasses all of the other things I have done with my career. The memories of my time at Sacred Heart and St Martin’s that are dearest to me are of the friendships I had, and made. I am still in I enjoy many hobbies. I garden... a lot. I love reading and watching contact with some of those girls, now wonderful ladies. films especially foreign and indie films.

My favourite subjects in school were Drama and English, I couldn’t I am now looking forward to moving more into the charity sector and making Food Is Free Inc. a viable and sustainable social choose just one. Perhaps the thing I enjoyed the most about school enterprise. I have many projects in the pipeline. was when we went to the St Martin’s campus in Year 11, the setting was lovely, and to be studying surrounded by nature was perfect. Finally, a career tip that I would offer to students based on my life and experience is to pursue your dreams, work hard and be prepared After I graduated from high school I began a very rewarding and to compromise slightly, but never give up. extensive career in music, events, radio, TV and working for music festivals for the past 20 years. I run my own business, as a Music Publicist and have done so for the past 15 years, but I meandered LOUISE (LOU) RIDSDALE (CLASS OF 1990) into it after working in various media outlets and film/TV/arts organisation and got a lot of on the ground training. Being a music publicist I enjoy the variety, the fact that two days are never the same, the freedom of freelance work, and the pride and passion for my work. I really enjoy getting my artists airplay/ interviews and helping them on the road to success with their craft. PAST STUDENTS PLAYING FOR AFL GLORY Alumni Story

On Friday 16th September 2016, past students James Frawley Well done to James and Jordan – whose sporting abilities, (Class of 2006) and Jordan Roughead (Class of 2008) did battle skill and achievements are an inspiration to many. on the footy field, vying for AFL glory in the semi-finals. Jordan Roughead and the went on Hawthorn was heading for its fourth consecutive flag, while the to win the 2016 AFL Grand Final against the . Western Bulldogs had not won a flag since 1954. Congratulations Jordan. James, was first recruited in 2006 from the North Ballarat Rebels and Jordan was welcomed back to Damascus this year, where he debuted in Round 9 2007 with the Melbourne Demons, where he addressed the student population at the Year 12 assembly on played for eight years. In 2015 James joined the Hawthorn Football Wednesday 19th October. Club, where he featured in the club’s premiership winning team. Jordan was recruited in the 2008 AFL Draft after also playing for the North Ballarat Rebels. In 2010 Jordan made his AFL debut against Adelaide at Etihad Stadium and has played with the Western Bulldogs for the last six years. Jordan achieved Vice Captain of the Bulldogs in 2015. It was great to watch the tightly contested game, and to see two past Damascus students play at the top of their game, was truly a delight.

DAMASCUS STRONG Alumni Story

I was born in Horsham, but have also lived in Maryborough and Football Club VFL Team. I was involved with the Club team that won Mildura. In 1987 as a family we moved to Ballarat. I have great back-to-back to back premierships. It was an amazing effort. parents Vin and Sandra, as well as three sisters who also went to Damascus College - Andrea, Bernadette and Geraldine. I am now After finishing school at Damascus College I completed a fitness an uncle to two nephews and four nieces. instructor course and also undertook sport and community recreation studies. I graduated from Damascus College in 1999. I was a proud member of Xavier House. Thinking back, my time at Damascus helped me in I have enjoyed seeing the school grow. The school now tells a life now because it gave me the support to develop and reach my full wonderful story from where it started and where it’s heading. It’s potential as a person. My time as a student at Damascus was fantastic. great to see Damascus College thriving from the class rooms to the sporting field. In 2004 John Shannon, the first principal of Damascus College offered me a traineeship that led to my current job as a PE /Sport If I was to offer any career tips to students it would be to follow Assistant. What I enjoy the most about my current job is that I get your interests and do your best. I have been lucky to meet some to work in an area that I like. As a past Damascus student I have the wonderful people who have helped me along the way and have advantage of knowing the history of the school, its foundation. This given me great support in my career. helps me better understand where the school is headed. The advice I would give to a student starting Year 7 at Damascus is to have a go and never ever give up. When asked who my favourite teacher was I have to say, I didn’t have just one. There were so many teachers that have helped me along the journey. My best memories of Damascus are the first ever Damascus PATRICK DILLON (CLASS OF 1999) Day and seeing the excitement of the whole school at winning the Past student and Current Staff member BAS Athletics Carnival in our first year as Damascus. I also loved the experiences of Year 10 Outward Bound and the Year 12 retreat. In year 7 at St Pauls my first home room teacher was current staff member Mr Wayne Forster and in my class was ex Melbourne, Sydney and Collingwood premiership player Darren Jolly. My favourite subjects at secondary school were PE and Photography, two things that I still enjoy to this day. I like all sports, staying up to date with current affairs, especially politics. DAMASCUS COLLEGE – THE ROAD SPRING 2016 In addition to my role at Damascus I have worked as a gym instructor at the Ballarat Aquatic Centre and I work for the North Ballarat Pat Dillon with Jordan Roughead’s 2016 AFL Premiership Medal. 19 1:1 DEVICE PROGRAM

As a provider of contemporary secondary education, Damascus One of the great advantages of the 1:1 device program is that College is continually seeking ways to enhance classroom students will have access to a wide range of digital textbooks through engagement and improve educational outcomes for its students. the Jacaranda Digital Bundle and Cambridge Essential Mathematics, With the increasing importance of technology in workplaces, which the College will purchase for students. The Jacaranda bundle education and leisure, many primary and secondary schools provides a suite of textbooks together with interactivity supplements. are now moving towards an individual device program for each This will replace a significant number of resources that would have student (a 1:1 device program). been on the booklist. After significant consideration and research, Damascus College Each student will also be issued with a tablet bag to protect the device made the decision to move towards a 1:1 device program which was when transporting it from classroom to classroom or from home to launched in 2015. Year 7 and 8 students were the first year levels to the College. receive devices in 2015, and we built on the program by rolling out the devices to Year 7 and 10 in 2016. This program is intended not only to increase engagement and improve learning outcomes during the student’s time at Damascus, but also to enhance their skills and technological know-how in preparation for life beyond secondary school. Microsoft Surface Pros are the chosen tablet device and in line with the rollout schedule all students in Year 7 to 10 in 2016 will have a device, and by 2017 devices will be rolled out to all year levels across the College.

ANNUAL GUEST SPEAKER EVENT

Every year Damascus College invites a guest speaker to present Darren and his right hand man DJ Timmy D arrived on campus with information to students, staff and parents that may assist in student a wave of energy, enthusiasm and music to engage the student body. achievement, staff development and give insight into ways to assist Darren’s unique and engaging presentation style certainly kept the in developing young people. This year we were pleased to welcome students interested and excited throughout the duration of each Success Coach, Darren Pereira on Wednesday 18th May 2016. session. Students walked away with many new tools to assist them in achieving their goals. Darren presented sessions to each Damascus student on varying topics, and then continued his busy day presenting to Damascus staff, Staff learnt how to use Positive Process Praise to develop a Growth followed by a session for parents in the community, as per below: Mindset in our students in order to raise their achievement. We welcomed over 250 parents at the evening session, where they • Year 7 and 8 – Resiliency Program – the Power to Persist were provided with practical tools on how to create a positive home • Year 9 and 10 – Pathways and Careers Program – Shape your Destiny environment conducive to raising a child’s academic performance, mental health and wellbeing. • Year 11 and 12 – Study Skills Program – VCE Success Strategies • Staff – Dynamics of Student Achievement • Parents – Parenting Strategies for Teenage Success. 2016 CLASS REUNIONS 1995 REUNION

The dates for the 2016 Reunions are listed below. Full reunion details can be found at www.damascus.vic.edu.au/past-students-reunions-events 1976 - Saturday 22 October, 2016 1986 - Saturday 8 October, 2016 1991 - Saturday 12 November, 2016 1996 - Friday 14 October, 2016 2006 - Saturday 29 October, 2016

1.

2017 CLASS REUNIONS

Reunions scheduled for 2017 are for the following years; 1977, 1987, 1997 and 2007. It is our aim to have as many of your exit year group as possible attend and 2. 3. participate, including those who may have left at other times but identify best with this year group. Reunion dates will be finalised in November and posted on the College website as well as the Alumni Facebook Group page. As a past student or staff member of Damascus College, or any of the foundation schools, we invite you to provide your contact details by visiting www.damascus.vic. edu.au/past-students-keeping-in-touch and submitting the completed form.

Providing us with your contact information ensures that we can 4. • Keep you up to date with Alumni news • Inform you about reunions • Deliver “The Road” publication to you. The Class of 1995 reunion was held on Saturday 10th October 2015 at the George Hotel in a lovely function Another great way to stay in contact is on Facebook. Join the Damascus Alumni Group. room upstairs. If you have any queries regarding the 2017 Class Reunions please contact Alumni The event began with a school tour at 4pm, with drinks Officer Korina Hegert at [email protected] or (03) 5337 2222. and nibbles starting at 7.30pm until around midnight. Many people continued their evening downstairs, after the official event had finished, approximately 50-60 past students and partners were in attendance. REUNION WELCOME RECEPTION The Class Reunion was organised by past students Emma Mumford (Richards) and Brian Taylor.

This year the Alumni and Development Office at Damascus College have introduced At the reunion there were a couple of big posters with the Reunion Welcome Reception. old photos from our school days on the walls. Later in the evening there was a slideshow of a lot of old school This event is held at the Damascus College Campus during the reunion season. It is photos of everyone. a wonderful opportunity for the past students to gather and enjoy a drink and some nibbles prior to a guided tour of the College. The event concludes with a group photo The highlight of the evening was catching up with taken outside the iconic St Martin’s “doors”. everyone and seeing people that you hadn’t seen for years. The turnout was fantastic and everyone enjoyed Past and current staff are invited to the Reunion Welcome Reception to further enhance reconnecting. The slideshow was great to look back on the reunion experience as you take a trip down memory lane. The College archivist and also remember a few class mates we have lost since displays pictures and other items that the College has available as part of the event. finishing school. As the College is hosting the Welcome Reception there is no cost to alumni to attend. The one thing that we all seemed to remember from our time in high school was that we really did have a great After the reception your reunion group may decide to go on to a dinner or after party, year level and that most people got along well. this would be decided and organised by your Class Reunion organising group. If you have your class reunion coming up we would invite you to volunteer to be a STORY BY NATALIE HUNT (CLASS OF 1995) member of the organising group, to select your date early and enjoy the Damascus

College Welcome Reception as part of your Class Reunion Event. DAMASCUS COLLEGE – THE ROAD SPRING 2016 1. Michelle McMahon (Penhall), Kristen Cornish (Stuart), Aleasha Please contact Alumni Officer Korina Hegert at [email protected] Bartlett (Eppingstall), Eliza Molloy 2. Natalie Hunt and Kellie Tait or (03) 5337 2222. (Britt) 3. Belinda Powers (Callahan) and Eloise Stone (Norman) 21 4. Petrina Bodey, Anna Every (Caine), Narelle Lewis. 1. 2. 3. 4.

1. Kate Ferguson 2. Kinghorn/Somerville Wedding 3. Cooper/Senior Wedding 4. Wiseman/Garlic Wedding

might eventuate. After travelling to with Rebecca Wiseman (Class of 1999) WHERE ARE family, she moved to Munich, Germany where she was married to Dean Garlick in May 2015 at THEY NOW? spent a year working as an au pair and travelling. the Ballarat Lodge. Rebecca’s bridesmaids were After coming home to Ballarat, Lydia began a Hayley Crick nee Smith (Class of 1999), Kim Food Science Degree at Federation University after Ross (Class of 1989) and Leah Lancey nee Correction from previous Issue Milan Saunders which she completed Honours by dissertation. Slater (Class of 1998) Guests at the wedding (Class of 2011) was thrilled to receive his very included past Damascus College students Lydia is now working for the State Government in first ever PAID voice acting gig. He will be voicing Genevieve Edwards nee Hymers (Class of a permanent part time role. Sallos in “Rite of Passing”, a visual novel video 1999), Joshua Gatens (Class of 1997) and game by Novella Gaming. Melanie Hill (Class of 2007) was recently named Melissa Zakynthinos (Class of 1999). one of the 2016 ‘100 Women of Influence’ by Damien Jones (St Paul’s Technical College Lydia Kinghorn (Class of 2005) married Alumni) along with Danielle Jones were Westpac and the Financial Review, under the Brad Somerville at home in Dunnstown in late awarded a “Chef Hat” in this years The Age food ‘Young Leader’ section, for the work she has been summer this year. Lydia and Brad were delighted guide. This is the second “Hat” the Catfish Thai doing as a midwife/nurse at St Vincent’s Private to share this special day with their gorgeous one restaurant has won and solidifies the gourmet Hospital and in South Sudan, Uganda. year old toddler Madelaine, and Brad’s son Nate reputation they have. Bridget Davies (Class of 2007) recently won who is three. In attendance were past students Gavin Nash (Class of 1992) and Richard Nash the prestigious Student Journalist of the Year award Casey Bragg (Class of 2011), Morgan Olney and Rachel Harbour. (Class of 1990) have a successful design and at the Melbourne Press Club’s Quills Awards. (Class of 2012) She is currently studying journalism at RMIT and publication business in the Central Business Yasmin Auchettl (Class of 2007), married District of Ballarat. www.nashish.com working as a student journalist at the Herald Sun. Dahmon King on October 17th 2015 In Currumbin Valley on the Gold Coast. Alongside Kate Ferguson (Class of 1996) earned a coveted Stephanie Burzacott (Class of 2010) was awarded spot on the Channel 7 cooking show, Zumbo’s Just the University Medal, by Federation University. her was sister/bridesmaid Talia Auchettl (Class Desserts. Kate has worked as a government claims It is the highest Academic award at the Uni. of 2009). processor but hopes to open a food truck that Jai Jamieson (Class of 2015) earned two Former Damascus College school captain Kaitlyn serves sweet treats. She shares her life with her scholarships, one of which valued at $12,000 Cooper (Class of 2009) married Nicholas partner Matt and their two children. (engineering). Jai is undertaking an engineering Senior in January 2016. The wedding was held Kate was victorious in winning the grand degree at Federation University. in Creswick. In attendance were Kaitlyn’s three finale of Zumbo’s Just Desserts that aired on brothers, all former Damascus students;Joseph 27th September 2016. She won $100,000 in Cooper (Class of 2006), Jacob Cooper (Class prizemoney and the opportunity to have one of of 2011) and Lucas Cooper (Class of 2013). her desserts in judge Adriano Zumbo’s stores. BIRTHS Rebecca Garlick nee Wiseman (Class of 1999) will this year celebrate 12 years of teaching at the Monique Rose nee Klep (Class of 1996) and IN MEMORY Ballarat Specialist School. Stuart Rose welcomed a baby boy in January Ann Jones (Class of 2000) is the presenter for 2016. His name is Blake Rose, a little brother for Off Track on ABC Radio National. The show is about Aidan and Caitlin. JOHN BRICK the great outdoors and covers a range of topics Karla Jaeger nee Grunwaldt (Class of 1998) Former staff member John related to the environment from saving Victoria’s and husband, Mario, welcomed a second Brick passed away peacefully at endangered orchids to the disappearing Dibbler daughter, Emilie, born on 30th November 2015. his home on Tuesday June 28th (one of Australia’s rarest marsupials). Emilie is a little sister to Rosie. 2016, aged 68 years. Paul McMahon (Class of 2002) won the 2016 Kaitlyn Senior nee Cooper (Class of 2009) and John was a dedicated servant of St Martin’s in Central Highlands Football League (CHFL) Senior Nicholas Senior welcomed their first child, a baby boy, the Pines and then Damascus College from premiership player for Springbank and won the Emmett Michael into their lives in October 2015. 1986 until his retirement due to ill health in Best on Ground medal for the club in the 2016 2012. He filled many roles across the College CHFL Grand Final. including most recently; House Leadership and key leadership within the Religious Education Lydia Somerville nee Kinghorn (Class of learning team. John was a wonderful educator, 2005) attended University of Ballarat to study MARRIAGES a loved and loving father and husband. His primary teaching but at the end of her second daughter, Jennifer Henderson is a valued year she wondered if Primary teaching was for member of the Damascus teaching staff. her. Teaching was still her goal, but perhaps not Jacinta Costigan (Class of 1990) married David primary level. Lydia decided to focus on earning Flannery at a beautiful beach side wedding in John leaves behind his cherished wife Joan and money for a while as she decided what career path Ballina on Saturday 24th September, 2016. his beloved children and their partners; Jennifer CONGRATULATIONS DAMASCUS STUDENTS ON YOUR RECENT SPORTING ACHIEVEMENTS: Lauren Atkinson (Class of 2000) won the Cameron Richardson (Class of 2005) Jordan Roughead (Class of 2008) was a prestigious netballing Sally McLean trophy in Winning 2016 Ballarat Football League (BFL) winning 2016 AFL premiership player for the September. Awarded for Best and Fairest player premiership player for Bacchus Marsh Cobras. Western Bulldogs Football Club. in the Ballarat Football League’s (BFNL) A Grade competition during the Henderson Medal Ben Taylor (Class of 2005), an onballer Molly Mathews (Class of 2012) was selected to play Night presentations. This is back-to-back wins for for Ballarat Football League (BFL) team Lake her second season (2016-17) for the Bendigo Spirit in Lauren, she won the League’s highest individual Wendouree, was the winner of the Henderson the Women’s National League (WNBL). Medal 2016 awarded for Best and Fairest. The award last year as well. Lauren was also named as Ashlee Smith (Year 11 Student) winning the 2016 the captain in the BFNL Team of the Year. award was “totally unexpected” said Ben when he was asked about his win at the ceremonies Ballarat Football Netball League (BFNL) 19 & Under Paul McMahon (Class of 2002) Winning held on Monday 11th September in Ballarat. Netball - Most Valuable Player (MVP), member of 2016 Central Highlands Football League (CHFL) the 2016, Netball Premiership team in the 2016 Senior premiership player for Springbank and James Frawley (Class of 2006) was a 2016 BFNL 19 & Under Grand Final, winning the Best on won the Best on Ground for the club in the AFL Preliminary Finals player for the Hawthorn Court at the 2016 BFNL, 19 & Under Netball Grand 2016 CHFL Grand Final. Football Club and Winning 2015 AFL premiership Final and winning the Redan Football Netball Club, player for . 19 & Under Netball Best and Fairest. and Grant; David and Phoebe; Paul and Tara; Max continued to the new Damascus College site - Cecilia Bowman (former staff member of Sacred Gerard and Birgit; James and Jade and in Victoria Street before he re-retired 10 years later. Heart College and St Martin’s in the Pines) his ten precious Grandchildren. Max was in the presence of his family. His wife of LESLIE BEACHAM Past student Airleigh Clark (Class of 2007) 62 years Maureen and much loved Dad of Helen remembered John fondly “I was sent to John as my and Wayne, Paul and Nicole, Kathryn and David, Leslie Raymond Francis Xavier house leader for having too many colours in Mark and Sue, Damien and Jenny, Chris and (Beachy) Beacham sadly died my hair. After I told Mr Brick why I was there to see Michelle; loving Pop of 16 grandchildren and on 8th July 2016 aged 65. Les him he paused for a moment, looked at my hair and proud Great Pop of 7. was the dearly loved husband of said “It looks great , go enjoy your recess”. R.I.P Margaret and father to Annabel, Ramsay (Class Mr Brick. You were a great teacher and leader.” JOAN RYAN of 2001), Jesse (Class of 2005) and Steve. Les was a much loved teacher and friend to strong links with Joan Ryan’s hundreds of students during his time at St Paul’s PAMELA NAM present-day Damascus began in Technical College and as a Casual Relief Teacher Dedicated past staff member 1948 when she joined Sacred Heart at Damascus College in recent years. A wonderful Pamela (Pam) Christine Nam College as a Grade Three student. friend to everyone! A man of many careers and nee Ewenson died peacefully at She completed her secondary education at SHC interests who had a huge influence on so many St John of God Hospital, in Ballarat in 1957, having achieved academic distinction who had a passion for education, particularly in on June 26th, 2016. Pam was just 69 years old. and success as an all-round student leader. When Pam passed she was in the presence of her the technology field. After completing her BA Dip Ed at Melbourne family. Pam leaves behind her loving husband University, Joan taught at Boort and Ballarat Roland and children Kylie, Michael and Ben. MARY COOPER High Schools before embarking on the Pam was an adored grandmother. Mary Cooper sadly passed away traditional Aussie working holiday. She taught on 10th October 2016, aged Pam’s career at Damascus College included in various English schools and took in plenty 48. Mary has been a Science being at Sacred Heart College from 1990 – of drama and opera, but her main goal was the technician at the College since 1994. She also taught at St. Martins in the Pines intrepid exploration of Europe, driving all around 2008, in more recent years her organisational between 1993 – 1994. She continued as a Yugoslavia and through East and West Berlin and skills and educational support has been teacher for another nine years when Damascus smuggling money into Russia. She came back to extended to the Visual Arts learning area where College was formed in 1995, leaving in 2003. Australia overland, dodging wars in Israel, Iran, she has also worked as a technician. Past student Liana Shaw nee Murphy (Class Afghanistan and . Mary was a former student of our founding of 2002), said about Pam “I feel very lucky and Invited to teach at St Martin’s in the Pines in 1969, schools; beginning at Sacred Heart College in grateful to have many fond memories of learning she participated enthusiastically in the academic 1980 and progressing to St Martin’s in the Pines Indonesian from her as well as an incredible Bali and cultural life of the new school. She was a where she finished her schooling in 1985. trip. Rest peacefully Pam.” key member of the Modern Thought and Culture Team which combined history, arts and science in Mary was a woman with an amazing work ethic. MAXWELL GILBERT a new subject, fondly remembered by students She was organised and skilled and had a quiet, Maxwell (Max) Donald Gilbert of the 1970s. She was the practical force in a unflappable presence that made sure that the passed away peacefully on March flowering of live drama, organising the building equipment was organised for the learning activities 8th, 2016, aged 85. Max was a of a portable stage and sets and providing music, for thousands of student practical activities over past staff member of St Paul’s sound effects and even duelling lessons. her time at the College. She brought order and Technical College and Damascus College. In 1976, Joan returned to Ballarat High School and cleanliness to her work and an amazing generosity of spirit. Her quiet gentle presence amongst our Max didn’t begin his career as a teacher until 1984 taught there until she retired in 1998. Her love of staff team will be sorely missed. when he retired from the Railway Workshops drama and travel, combined with a wide range in Ballarat North. Max started work at St. Paul’s of practical skills made her a very valuable staff We remember Mary’s husband, Brendan and Technical School doing maintenance but he was member, both in the classroom and administration. her loved children; Patrick, Gemma and Hugh; her soon encouraged to get his teaching qualification A very happy retirement, with much travelling parents Jim and Eileen, Mary’s siblings and her and he began teaching welding. His son Paul said around Australia was cut short by brain cancer beautiful extended family who surrounded her in DAMASCUS COLLEGE – THE ROAD SPRING 2016 “there’s not a boy who went through that school and she died on 1st March, 2016. At her life love in the short time that preceded her death. who couldn’t remember dad’s voice in their ear celebration, Damascus and Ballarat High telling them to “shorten your arc”. ex-students were well represented. She had 23 contributed positively to many lives. Damascus College ALUMNIALUMNI Damascus College Students Sacred Heart College St Martin’s in the Pines & Sta St Paul’s Technical College

As a past student or staff member of Damascus College, or any of the founding schools, we invite you to provide your contact details by visiting our website at www.damascus.vic.edu.au and selecting Past Students or by returning the Connecting @ Damascus form enclosed.

Providing us with this information ensures that we can • Keep you up to date with Alumni News • Inform you about reunions • Deliver “The Road” to you

If you have already registered your information with us, THANK YOU

It is our aim to have as many of In 2017 we have the your exit year group as possible following reunions attend and participate, including reunions2017 scheduled: those who may have left at other School Class 2007... 10 Year times but identify best with this Want to help? year group. Organising groups for the 2017 Class School Class 1997 ... 20 Year The reunions are held between Reunions need your participation. School Class 1987 ... 30 Year October and early December, Email for more information each year. [email protected] School Class 1977 ... 40 Year Volunteering@Damascus Become Involved Damascus College is a welcoming community that aims to promote the active engagement of current families and Alumni in the social and educational life of the College. This engagement builds connections within the College and helps facilitate partnerships between the school and wider community. Please consider enriching our College community by sharing your skills, expertise, time and services, by becoming a Damascus volunteer.

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